It’s understandable how one may be on the fence in regards to whether or not stripping is for them. It’s a uniquely different occupation than your normal 9 to 5 gig. The money is great but is that only reason? You love to dance and think you’re sexy, is that enough? What would your parents say? What would your friends say? All questions worth asking yourself.

There are a lot of important questions to ask yourself and a million reasons to talk yourself out of becoming an exotic dancer. But if money is an issue at the current moment, exotic dancing (assuming of course you have some sort of rhythm and decent body) is the only profession, short of prostitution, that will snatch you up in an instant and bring money in fast. These are facts.

But personal morals and values come into question when you are actually on the fence and stripping isn’t your “only option” but rather a career move you may be thinking of making. So forget the questions about your friends, parents, kids, co-workers, and what they’ll think. Focus on YOU and what concerns you the most about entering this industry.

First look at the internal conflicts you’re initially having. It will be these bumps that you will need to get over before you go anywhere. Could you use the money? Is there a goal you’re hoping to reach in terms of dollar amounts? Do you enjoy physical contact with strangers with the purpose in mind of the almighty dollar? Can you separate work from emotion, business from pleasure? Are you comfortable with your body? With people you don’t know seeing you naked? These are all important questions you must get through first. Questions about YOU.

After you get over that, then think about what type of venue you want to work in: high-end or mediocre. These will determine how much money you make and test your mental strength because other entertainers, clientele, and management will all test your intellectual toughness. Then decide how well you can work a pole. You can Youtube pole dancing and there is tons of literature and dvd’s that can walk you through the art form. It is recommended that you go to strip clubs and purely observe the entertainers at work. Ask them questions and pick their brains, they’ll be more than glad to be of service to your inquiries. The real money makers may make you pay for their time, but those are the ones who hold the most valuable information. Then its time to shop! There are plenty of websites and boutiques that sell elegant and provocative apparel for entertainers. Then practice your best moves at home or on a friend. Pole dancing classes for aerobic purposes will warm the body up to hours of work as well.

Maybe all this isn’t for you. And that is fine. You must understand that it is hard work and not always as glamorous as it may seem. It can take you as far you as you let it. Good luck and email PUMPSmag.com if you make it big!